While Tamil Nadu lost their semi-final encounter against Haryana on Wednesday, there was something to cheer about, in that loss too. Despite the middle-order crumbling in the 294-run chase, Baba Indrajith came up with a 64-run innings that will be remembered for long, at least in the domestic circuit. Even though just a fifty, it was an innings of sheer determination and grit from Indrajith, who got badly injured during the mid-inning break.
What Happened During Vijay Hazare Semis
After his ice bath session, Indrajith slipped and got a big cut on his upper lip. Despite the mishap, the experienced TN batsman came out to when his team was reeling at 54/3. Despite getting medical attention during his stay at the crease, he managed to bat on for 71 balls, in utter discomfort. TN skipper Dinesh Karthik revealed after the match that Aparajith went to the hospital to get stitches, and will be fine soon.
‘Thank You’, Says Indrajith
In a lengthy Instagram post, Indrajith wrote, “Thank you all for your concern and wishes. Slipped and fell very badly when I stepped out of the ice bath mid-innings. Fell face-on in the bathroom and was shaken up quite a bit. Was bleeding with a deep cut on the upper lip and the inside of the lip. Managed to bat somehow but was gutted to not cross the finish line for the team. Just went to the hospital and got my stitches done. Should be back soon. Thank you once again.”
The Anil Kumble Connection
While batting at the Antigua Test in 2002, Anil Kumble was hit by a bouncer by Mervyn Dhillon, which left his jaw broken. But instead of resting, and going back home, Kumble went on to bowl 14 overs with a heavily bandaged jaw. In fact, he even picked up Brian Lara’s wicket. Indrajith’s exploits in the Vijay Hazare Trophy might not compare well with Kumble’s efforts, but it certainly reminded all of the great man.